Funding boost for our Sons and Daughters of the West

Oct 17, 2018 9:29AM

Funding boost for health programsThe Western Bulldogs Community Foundation has received a significant boost, with the Victorian Government committing $800,000 over three years to help fund the Sons of the West and Daughters of the West health programs.

TheWestern Bulldogs Community Foundationhas received a significant boost, with a re-elected Andrews Government committing $800,000 over three years to help fund the Sons of the West and Daughters of the West health programs.

The funding will enable 800 men and women living across the western suburbsaccess to the life-changing men’s and women’s programswhich promote good mental health, better nutrition, increased physical activity, gender equality and respectful relationships.

TheSons of the West programhas made a significant contribution to the community since it began in 2014, reaching up to 1000 men each year. In 2018, it was delivered across 10 local government areas and 17 sites.

Daughters of the Westwas introduced last year, coinciding with the Club’s first season in the AFLW competition, and complements the Club’s commitment to promoting and supporting women’s participation in sport and physical activity.

Western Bulldogs CEO Ameet Bains said he was proud of the positive impact the programs have on the western suburbs.

“As a football club we’re incredibly proud of the community programs we run, and the profound difference that we make,” Bains said.

“We feel really privileged to have such a significant national platform, and we think with that comes a distinct obligation to make a positive change over and above what we do, whether it’s with our men’s teams or our women’s teams on the weekend.

“The Community Foundation is the absolute flagbearer of that within the AFL industry and within sport in the country as well.”

Minister for Health Jill Hennessy said: “We know that men and women can grapple with problems such as mental health, social isolation, respect and gender equality. We’re helping navigate these difficult issues so that they can be the best they can be,” she said.

“These programs make a real difference by giving people the skills and the confidence they need to tackle what life throws at them.”